When workplace bullies attack

Published in the Idaho State Journal and Blackfoot Morning News week of October 10, 2010


The modern workplace is plenty stressful—budget cuts, reorganizations, shifting profit margins. And there are many valid reasons why work stress might leak out beyond the front lobby—deadlines, product roll-outs, natural competition, and other career realities that excite and energize a motivated worker to do their best. But any human system with more than one person in it has the potential for corruption. People are people; with our insecurities, varying belief systems about fair play, and unhealthy social habits that have no place in one’s personal life, much less at work. These days, many underhanded, negative, and hurtful job-related shenanigans are falling under the umbrella of workplace bullying.

Workplace bullying can be generally defined as physically or emotionally abusive behavior directed towards an employee that transcends rank and race, gender, or other legal classifications of worker. Bullying behavior can include yelling, put-downs in front of coworkers, work or career sabotage, intimidation, or humiliation. According to Dr. Gary Namie and the Workplace Bullying Institute (www.workplacebullying.org), approximately 35% of American workers have been or are currently affected by workplace bullying. Bullying can cause PTSD, depression, family problems, high-blood pressure, and other physical, social, and emotional issues. Bullying can cost an employer a fortune in increased sick leave, reduced productivity, and the loss of talented, experienced employees.

Because what happens more often than not is, the bullying target quits or gets fired. The hemorrhaging of talent because of bullying is a grossly dysfunctional cost of doing business. In general, the bullying target is better off anywhere else, and an employer who promotes bullying (because inaction = permission) deserves the loss and cost.

So what happens next for the recovering bullied target? Ideally, there is a better, more amazing job somewhere else. But does the ego-slaying emotional impact of inappropriate and unethical workplace behavior magically dissolve with a bright, shiny new job or venture? It would take an almost inhuman amount of self-esteem to fully weather an abusive work experience. Workplace bullying, even if it happened in the past, might leave behind issues that will take time to be resolved. It could be a cautious process to prevent the ghosts of workplaces past from interfering with the excitement and possibility of the workplace present and future.

Recovering from an abusive workplace can be similar to recovering from an abusive relationship. Being forced against the living room wall or feeling backed against your cubicle wall can leave similar scars. Emotional wounds such as loss of confidence, failure to remember your gifts and strengths, and inability to find the self-worth necessary to stand up for yourself. Lack of trust; feeling the possibility of betrayal around every corner. Or intense self-consciousness—are you saying the perfect thing, dressing the perfect way, are you meeting approval, what are the new people in your life noticing and saying about you?

For the workplace-wounded, it might be helpful to remember there was a time when work was fun. A time when things made sense, when your professional life was supported by honesty and integrity. Healthy, functional work environments do exist, and every new business card, uniform, or signature on a paycheck brings with it the opportunity for a fresh start and renewed positive attitude about yourself and work. Bouncing back up after being knocked down at work can be a challenging process; but with continuing support of family, friends, or wellness professionals, it’s possible to jump out of bed looking forward to your work day once again. Onward!


Nancy Goodman is a licensed counselor with an emphasis on life and career coaching. For questions or to schedule a free consultation (in-person or over the telephone), please contact Nancy at 208-406-3234 or goodnanc@yahoo.com. http://vocatusidaho.blogspot.com